Stage Left Theatre has announced that Co-Artistic Directors Jason A. Fleece and Amy Szerlong, as well as Co-Literary Manager Zev Valancy, will be leaving the company as of today. The company will put the brakes on their 2018-2019 season plans in order to focus on the search for new leadership.

During the transition company operations will be maintained by the company’s Board, 10-member Ensemble, and 17 Artistic Associates. “We are proud of what Jason and Amy have accomplished and wish them well in their future endeavors” board member Marcey Abramovitz said. “I think we can all agree that this is a challenging atmosphere for arts organizations across the sector, and Stage Left is no different. While we take a moment to explore new models and opportunities for the company and focus on our leadership search we also look forward to some exciting fundraising initiatives and a forthcoming programming announcement for later this spring.”

“The opportunity to lead this 36-year-old company has been a great honor and we’re proud of the work we’ve produced over the past two seasons,” said Szerlong. Fleece added, “After 9 years with this company, in a variety of capacities, I am hopeful about what the next phase will be for Stage Left but it’s time for us to move on to other opportunities.”

During Valancy’s time as Literary Manager, the Downstage Left Residency yielded eight plays that went on to full productions, four at Stage Left and four elsewhere. “I know the company will continue its commitment to new work in the years ahead,” said Valancy. Annaliese McSweeney, the current Co-Literary Manager, will continue on as Literary Manager.